BELMAR, NJ (July 9, 2004) – The New Jersey Sandcastle Contest today announced that its 18th Annual event which took place on Wednesday, July 7th at Belmar’s 18th Avenue Beach, was a great success, attracting over 9,500 participants and onlookers. The event awarded over $3,500 worth of prizes to the top three finishers in each of six categories, as well as the coveted "Best of Beach."

"This event continues to evolve and is one of the best family-oriented activities Belmar has to offer each year," said Frank Sementa, chairman of the event, and owner of D’Jais Bar and Restaurant, the major sponsor and coordinator. "With continued support from local and national sponsors, and the incredible energy and enthusiasism of all the participants, the event provides the formula for a great day at the beach."

The annual sandcastle contest is an all-day event that attracts sand sculpting enthusiasts of all levels to competition. The participants come from throughout New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania, and this year one of the winners drove from Maine. In addition to the sand sculpting, the event includes free giveaways, food, beverages, entertainment, and more.

This year’s event had more than 350 entries represented by individuals and groups, some comprised of several hundred people. Many unique and innovative sand sculptures were built, including traditional sandcastles, as well as an array of unique creations such as volcanoes, pyramids, a bowling alley, a replica of the United States, and assorted sea life.

Participants were judged on creativity, resourcefulness, originality, and accessories. First, second, and third prizes were awarded to the following winners in each of five age categories. There was also a prize for Day Camps and Best of Beach.

2004 Sandcastle and Sand Sculpting Winners

Age 7 years old and under category: first place, Rebekka Wagner of Matawan; second place, Stephen Tucker of Wall Township; third place, Carter, Victor, Dominick and Brandon Sammons of Cape Coral, Florida.

Age 8 to 11 years old category: first place, Griffin and Riley O’Donnell and Alejandro DelGado of Brick Township; second place, Luke and Austin Lyons of Flemington; third place, The Ronzetti’s of Manasquan.

Age 12 to 15 years old category: first place, Charlotte Vilson and Kate Barron, of Colts Neck; second place, Summer Fun of South Belmar; third place, Eric Winter and Rebecca Cozzi of Manalapan.

Age 16 years old and up category: first place, John Klein, Mike Albanese and Leny Kislowski of Maine, Point Pleasant and Belmar, respectively; second place, Mark and Nicole D’Angelo of Belmar; third place, Joe Davis of Somerset.

Family category: first place, Ron, Emily, Peter and Lauren Praedo of Howell; second place, The Bassett Family of Wall Township; third place, The Ragone Family of Belmar.

The Day Camp winner was Belmar Recreation, while the Best of the Beach prize was awarded to Bill Cichone of Bridgewater who walked away with the top trophy and prizes.